Desalination is ramping up ahead of a dry summer in Queensland. 

The Gold Coast Desalination Plant has intensified its production to supplement drinking water in the SEQ Water Grid. 

Seqwater says it has augmented desalinated water output to maintain reservoir levels, with current dam levels just below 70 per cent.

While SEQ Water Grid still has ample water, the 'pre-drought' phase has been triggered in response to decreased dam levels. 

The Gold Coast Desalination Plant, operating under the Drought Response Plan, is set to produce up to 133 ML of drinking water daily to support Logan and Brisbane when needed.

The desalination plant, capable of increasing production within 72 hours, offers operational flexibility during peak demand and drought preparedness. It has previously been deployed to supplement water supplies following flooding events.

In the context of long-term water security, Seqwater is exploring the expansion of the Gold Coast Desalination Plant and the establishment of a second desalination plant. Business cases for these proposals are expected to be completed in 2024.